The Dowager pushed past the servants, her white robes flowing behind her, her feet carrying her toward the door with a speed that belied her years.She had to reach Obiageli.Had to warn her.
"Dowager."
A voice stopped her cold.
Somadina stood in the doorway, filling it with his presence.
His voice was polite."I was just coming to see you."
The Dowager's eyes narrowed."What have you done?"
"I have done what needed to be done."He stepped into the room, and behind him, guards moved to block the exit."I have arrested the traitors who murdered my father.I have freed the woman they framed for their crimes.And now I’m here to discuss your retirement."
The Dowager's face went pale."You dare—"
"Grandmother.It is either that or I persecute you for treason and colluding with the enemy."Noting the shock on her face, he continued.“I know you’re responsible for Orda Naiman’s army closing in on us without warning from the Oracle.”
“Somadina—”
“I know Chukwuemeka is working under you.I should seriously thank you for giving me the throne.”
"You cannot claim anything without proof!"
"The Oracle said there was a devil among us.She did not name names, and yet, someone was signalled and arrested.Dowager.We are past the point of evidence and justice.The people want blood, no matter what flimsy excuse."Somadina's voice hardened."Be lucky I haven’t killed Obiageli."
The Dowager's face crumbled.
He straightened."You are a grieving mother, overcome by sorrow, driven mad by loss.Everyone will understand why you must be confined to your chambers for your own safety.For your own protection."
The guards stepped forward.
The Dowager fought them—trying to run past the door, scratching, screaming, her composure completely shattered.But they were stronger and younger.At the threshold, she twisted, fixing Somadina with a look of pure hatred.
"You think you've won?"she spat."You think freeing that witch will save you?She will destroy you.She will destroy everything.And when she does, I will be there to watch."
Somadina smiled.
"Take her away."
Azul wouldn’t destroy him.
Borji was dead now; he was the only one she could crown king.
In Chidinma's chambers, the afternoon light filtered through gauze curtains, painting the room in shades of gold.She sat by the window, her embroidery frame in her hands, her needle moving in an attempt to capture the storm clouds that haunted the city.
Since the news of her father's arrest, she had not stopped sewing.
It was the only thing that kept her hands from shaking.
The door opened.She did not look up.
"My Lady."A servant's voice, trembling."An imperial decree has arrived."
Chidinma's needle paused.
"Read it," She ordered.
The servant unrolled the scroll, his hands shaking.
